Epidermis Anatomy

From Heather Brannon, MD, former About.com Guide

Updated September 30, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

The structure of the stratum corneum layer looks simple, but this layer is responsible for maintaining the integrity and hydration of the skin - a very important function. There are actually complex processes that are at work in the stratum corneum and minimal disruptions of any of these processes can cause a variety of skin problems.

• Epidermis Anatomy - Keratinocyte Maturation
• Stratum Basale
• Stratum Spinosum
• Stratum Granulosum
• Stratum Lucidum
• Stratum Corneum
• Stratum Corneum - Close-Up